Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying snack or a show-stopping appetizer that will have everyone clamoring for the recipe, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Easy Crabbies! This dish is more than just a name—this delicious blend of crab, cheese, and seasonings spread on warm toasty English muffins (or crackers) has been a staple in my kitchen for years.
I first stumbled upon this recipe while planning a cozy gathering with friends a few summers ago. I wanted something that showcased my love for seafood without taking hours in the kitchen. The delightful aroma of baked cheese and crab filling up the house was enough to make everyone excited. The look on their faces when they took the first bite? Priceless. Since then, I have made Easy Crabbies for countless occasions. It’s my little secret weapon for parties, picnics, and even for a tasty night in with a movie. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
What’s in Easy Crabbies?
Let’s take a closer peek at what makes these Easy Crabbies so delightful:
Cream Cheese: The creamy base that brings everything together and adds a rich flavor. I always opt for a regular block of cream cheese as it lends the best texture.
Lump Crab Meat: This is the star of the show! Make sure to drain it well and check for shells. Fresh crab meat is ideal if you can find it, but good-quality canned crab also works in a pinch.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds a zingy flavor and a gorgeous golden color when baked. You know the kind—extra flavor means zero boring bites.
Mayonnaise: Just a splash helps to keep things creamy and smooth without overpowering the dish.
Green Onions: These little guys bring a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens up the crab mixture—plus, they make for a great garnish!
Worcestershire Sauce: A twist of this sauce adds complexity and enhances the savory notes. Don’t skip it!
Garlic Powder: A touch of garlic for flavor depth. I always reach for garlic powder because it blends so easily into the creamy mixture.
Old Bay Seasoning: A must-have for any crab dish! This iconic blend enhances the seafood flavor without being too overwhelming.
Salt and Pepper: Of course, you’ll need a pinch (or more!) to taste!
English Muffins (or Crackers): The perfect crunchy base that holds all this deliciousness together. I love personalizing it with whatever I have on hand!
Is Easy Crabbies Good for You?
This dish, while definitely indulgent, does have some health benefits thanks to its wholesome ingredients:
Crab Meat: Full of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and enhance brain function. Plus, it’s lower in fat than many other meats.
Cream Cheese: While it adds a creamy texture, keep in mind that it does contain saturated fats. It’s okay in moderation, especially if you balance it with veggies or a salad on the side.
Green Onions: These are packed with vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. They add a nice crunch and freshness!
Keep in mind that, like all creamy, cheesy dishes, Easy Crabbies are best enjoyed as a treat rather than a daily staple. Pairing them with a fresh salad can help balance things out for a more nutritious meal!
Ingredients List
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 8 oz lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 green onions, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package English muffins, split in half (or crackers, as an alternative)
– Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing
*Serves: About 4-6 people, depending on how hungry everyone is!*
How to Make Easy Crabbies?
Ready to whip these up? Here’s how to bring this delicious dish to life:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using English muffins, split them in half and place them cut side up on a baking sheet. Don’t forget to grease the sheet lightly with olive oil or cooking spray!
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lump crab meat, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, finely chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined—you want a lovely, cohesive spread.
3. Spread a generous layer of the crab mixture on each half of the English muffins. Make sure to cover them evenly; we want every bite to be delicious!
4. Place the prepared baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and bubbly. The smell will be heavenly, and you might just hear a “Yum!” before they’re out of the oven.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Garnish with additional chopped green onions before serving, because, let’s be honest, we eat with our eyes first!
6. Serve warm as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy every bite!
Delicious Tips and Variations to Enjoy!
– If you’re a fan of spice, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeño into the mixture for a nice kick!
– For a more gourmet touch, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top before serving—so good!
– These Easy Crabbies can be made ahead of time! Just prepare the mixture and spread it on the muffins or crackers. Bake them right before your guests arrive for optimal yummy-ness.
– If you want a low-carb option, go ahead and ditch the English muffins and serve the crab mixture with veggie sticks—carrots, celery, and bell peppers are perfect dippers!
I’m so excited for you to give this recipe a try! I can already picture the smiles and laughter that will fill your kitchen as you make these Easy Crabbies. Don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Happy cooking!
